Polyscias fruticosa (Đinh Lăng) is a valuable medicinal herb deeply embedded in Vietnam’s traditional herbal culture. Nicknamed “The Poor Man’s Ginseng” due to its comprehensive tonic and healing properties, Polyscias is now attracting international interest in the pharmaceutical, functional food, and cosmetic industries.
1. OUTSTANDING MEDICINAL AND HEALTH VALUE
Polyscias contains a range of valuable bioactive compounds that underpin its medicinal applications:
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Ginseng-Like Saponin Content: The leaves and roots of Polyscias contain high levels of Saponins (the main medicinal component found in Ginseng). Saponins help to:
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Boost Immunity: Act as a tonic, combating nervous exhaustion and fatigue.
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Support Digestion: Improve the body’s ability to absorb nutrients.
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Flavonoids and Alkaloids: These active compounds have powerful antioxidant effects, protecting cells from free radical damage.
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Vitamins and Amino Acids: Provides abundant Vitamins B, C, and essential amino acids, which help enhance cerebral blood circulation, improve sleep quality, and boost working efficiency.
2. USABLE PARTS AND EXPORT APPLICATIONS
A key strength of Polyscias is that the entire plant can be harvested and processed into various product forms:
| Plant Part | Medicinal Highlight | Potential Export Applications |
| Roots | Contains the highest content of Saponins and active compounds, especially from plants over 3 years old. | Functional Foods (Dietary Supplements), High-Concentration Extracts, Herbal Tonics. |
| Leaves | Rich in Vitamins C, B, and essential oils. | Herbal Teabags/Tisanes, Steam Baths, Cosmetic Raw Material (skin-soothing extracts). |
| Stems and Branches | Used traditionally in medicinal decoctions. | Raw material for the pharmaceutical industry and craft products (e.g., herbal pillows). |
3. STANDARDIZED CULTIVATION AND COMMERCIAL POTENTIAL
Vietnam is promoting the high-quality, large-scale cultivation of Polyscias to meet the global demand for natural herbal medicine:
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Natural Farming: Polyscias thrives in Vietnam’s soil and climate conditions, requiring minimal chemical intervention for pest control.
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Specialized Harvesting: The roots are harvested under strict procedures, typically during the dry season when the active compound content is at its peak. Roots are then cleaned, dried, or sliced to ensure the preservation of active properties.
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Quality Control: Products are rigorously tested for moisture content, active compound concentration (especially Saponin), and zero chemical residue, aiming to meet the strict standards of the international functional food industry (e.g., GMP, ISO).
Vietnamese Polyscias is a natural, effective, and sustainable solution for the growing global wellness market. We are ready to supply high-quality, certified Polyscias raw materials to global partners in the pharmaceutical and functional food sectors.
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